What you need to know about Maryland driver's licenses
Maryland issues driver's licenses through the Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA), which operates as a division of the Maryland Department of Transportation. You can obtain a license by visiting an MVA office in person, bringing the required documents, and passing a written test and driving test. Maryland does not allow online applications for new licenses, though you can renew some licenses online if you meet specific conditions.
The state offers different license types depending on your age and driving history. A standard Class D license is for regular passenger vehicle operation. If you are under 18, you will go through Maryland's Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) system, which phases in driving privileges over time. Commercial Driver's License (CDL) holders need separate testing and medical certification.
Key Takeaways
- New Maryland driver's licenses require an in-person visit to an MVA office with proof of identity, residency, and Social Security number.
- You must pass a written knowledge test and a behind-the-wheel driving test before receiving your license.
- Maryland licenses are valid for eight years for adults and five years for drivers under 21.
- Online renewal is available only if your license is not expired, you have no medical restrictions, and you have not had certain violations in the past three years.
- Minors under 18 follow the Graduated Driver Licensing system, which restricts nighttime driving and passenger limits during the first two years.
Documents you need to bring to the MVA
Maryland requires proof of identity, proof of residency, and proof of your Social Security number. For identity, bring a valid passport, birth certificate, or state ID. If you use a birth certificate, it must be an official certified copy, not a photocopy.
Proof of residency can be a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days and showing your current Maryland address. A driver's license from another state counts as both identity and residency proof if it is still valid. You will also need to provide your Social Security number; you can bring your Social Security card, W-2 form, or 1099 form as proof.
If you are explore for a Real ID-compliant license (marked with a gold star), you need the same documents plus proof that you are a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident. Bring your passport, birth certificate, naturalization papers, or permanent resident card. Real ID licenses are required for federal building access and domestic air travel starting May 7, 2025.
The written test and what it covers
Maryland's written knowledge test has 25 multiple-choice questions covering traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. You must answer at least 19 questions correctly to pass. The test is offered in multiple languages, including Spanish, Vietnamese, Chinese, and Korean. You can request a reader or other accommodations if you have a disability.
The test covers Maryland-specific rules: right-of-way laws, speed limits, seat belt requirements, and what different road signs mean. You can study using the Maryland Driver's Manual, which is free and available on the MVA website. Many people take practice tests online before their appointment to build confidence.
If you fail the written test, you can retake it the same day at most MVA offices, though some locations may require you to schedule another appointment. There is no additional fee for retesting on the same day.
The driving test and what the examiner watches for
The behind-the-wheel driving test lasts about 20 to 30 minutes. The examiner will ask you to perform basic maneuvers: starting the vehicle, turning, backing up, parking (both parallel and perpendicular), and stopping. You will drive on local roads and demonstrate your ability to follow traffic laws, maintain control, and respond to other vehicles and pedestrians.
The examiner is looking for safe habits: proper mirror checks, smooth steering, appropriate speed, and correct use of turn signals. Common reasons people fail include hitting the curb while parking, failing to stop completely at stop signs, improper lane changes, and not checking mirrors frequently enough. Nervousness is normal, and examiners expect it.
You must bring the vehicle you will use for the test. It must be registered, insured, and in safe working condition. The examiner will check that the brakes, lights, wipers, and horn work before you start. If the vehicle fails this safety check, you cannot test that day.
Timeline and fees for getting your first license
The entire process from your first MVA visit to receiving your license typically takes two to four weeks, depending on how quickly you schedule your tests and pass them. You can book your written test and driving test appointments online through the MVA website or by calling 410-787-7758. Wait times for appointments vary by location and season; rural offices often have shorter waits than urban ones.
The fee for a Class D driver's license is $70 for an eight-year license (for drivers 21 and older). If you are under 21, the fee is $40 for a five-year license. A Real ID license costs an additional $10. These fees are paid at the MVA office when you explore. Maryland accepts cash, check, debit card, and credit card.
If you fail your driving test, you must wait at least one business day before retesting. There is no additional fee for retesting, but you will need to schedule a new appointment. Most people pass on their second or third attempt.
Renewing your Maryland license online or in person
You can renew your license online if all of these conditions are true: your license is not expired, you have no medical restrictions noted on your current license, you have not been convicted of certain traffic violations in the past three years, and you are not changing your name or address. Online renewal costs $70 and takes about two weeks to arrive by mail.
If you cannot renew online, you must visit an MVA office in person. Bring your current license, proof of residency if you have moved, and payment. In-person renewal takes about 30 minutes at the office, and you receive a temporary paper license when ready while your plastic card is mailed to you.
Maryland licenses expire on your birthday. You can renew up to one year before expiration. If your license has been expired for more than one year, you must explore for a new license as if you were a first-time applicant, including retaking the written and driving tests.
Graduated Driver Licensing for drivers under 18
Maryland's GDL system has two stages after you pass your driving test. During the first 16 months (the Provisional License stage), you cannot drive between midnight and 5 a.m., and you can have no more than one passenger under 21 in the car. You must also wear a seat belt and cannot use a cell phone while driving, even hands-free.
After 16 months without a violation, you move to the Intermediate License stage, which lasts until you turn 18. During this stage, the midnight-to-5 a.m. restriction is lifted, but you still cannot have more than one passenger under 21 and cannot use a cell phone while driving. At 18, you receive an unrestricted Class D license.
If you receive a traffic violation or are involved in a crash during either stage, the restrictions may be extended or you may be required to complete a driver improvement course. Violations include speeding, failure to stop, and reckless driving.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get a Maryland license if I am not a U.S. citizen?
Yes. Maryland issues standard driver's licenses to lawful permanent residents and certain visa holders. You will need to bring your passport and visa or permanent resident card along with the other required documents. You cannot get a Real ID-compliant license without U.S. citizenship or permanent residency status.
What happens if I move to Maryland from another state?
You must obtain a Maryland license within 60 days of establishing residency. You can transfer your out-of-state license by visiting an MVA office with your current license, proof of Maryland residency, and payment. You will not need to retake the written or driving test if your out-of-state license is valid and you are at least 18 years old.
How do I change my name on my Maryland license?
Visit an MVA office with your current license, a certified copy of your marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order showing your legal name change, and payment of $70. You will receive a new license with your updated name. You do not need to retake any tests.
What if I lose my license or it is stolen?
Report it to your local police department and then visit an MVA office to request a replacement. Bring proof of identity and residency, and pay a $70 replacement fee. You will receive a temporary paper license when ready and your plastic card by mail within two weeks.
Can I take the written test in a language other than English?
Yes. Maryland offers the written test in Spanish, Vietnamese, Chinese (Mandarin and Cantonese), and Korean. Request your preferred language when you schedule your appointment online or by phone. You may also bring a certified interpreter if your language is not available.